2026 Open de France: Matt Fitzpatrick extends lead with another 65

Paris — Matt Fitzpatrick advanced with a 6-under 65 on Saturday, leading the Open de France by five shots as he pursues his fourth title of the year. Tom Vaillant, a French two-time winner on the smaller Alps Tour but still seeking his first DP World Tour title, finished tied for second at 67, joining Fitzpatrick in the final group for the last round before a home crowd.

Fitzpatrick began the tournament strongly, making a crucial 7-foot birdie putt on the first hole, reaching the green in two on the par-5 third for birdie, and then making a 4-foot wedge shot on the sixth hole. He only dropped one shot throughout the first three rounds, ending with an impressive total of 19-under 194. In an interview, Fitzpatrick expressed confidence, stating, "I feel like I’m in a position that if I go and shoot a good round tomorrow, then obviously it makes it almost impossible to catch. But long way to go, and just take it hole by hole."

Fitzpatrick's performance ties Seve Ballesteros' record for the lowest score under par after 54 holes at the Open de France (-19). To this point, Fitzpatrick has claimed the Valspar Championship and the RBC Heritage on the PGA Tour, and also won the Zurich Classic of New Orleans with his brother Alex. However, he was disappointed with his missed cut in the British Open and his subpar play in the PGA Tour's postseason.

Eugenio Chacarra of Spain, ranked No. 3 in the Race to Dubai, shot a 62 and was among five golfers tied for third place. Defending champion Michael Kim made a costly mistake, hitting into the water on the final hole, resulting in a 70 and giving him a seven-shot deficit. Vaillant, with only three top 10 finishes in his three years on the European Tour, expressed delight at the enthusiastic support from the French crowd.

He said, "It’s amazing. Whatever happens tomorrow, it’s something I will never forget — the final group here in French Open." Vaillant emphasized his intention to enjoy the experience and see what unfolds, but his primary focus remains on the final round.